cMonkX Radio

cMonkX

cMonkX Radio is an unscripted solo podcast about what it actually feels like to live through the AI revolution as a creative person. Each episode is a honest, unedited monologue — sometimes a walk through Berlin, sometimes a morning coffee, sometimes a late-night thought that wouldn't leave me alone. No guests, no scripts, no agenda. Just one person thinking out loud about technology, creative work, artificial intelligence, and the kind of life questions that don't have clean answers. Topics include: AI and the future of creative work, life as an expat in Berlin, independent content creation, digital tools and their human cost, philosophy of meaning and happiness, parenting at a distance, and the slow art of making things when the world wants everything fast. If you're a maker, a thinker, or someone who uses technology every day but sometimes wonders what we're actually optimizing for — this show is for you. New episodes whenever something is worth saying. contact me at: cmonkxxx@gmail.com

  1. Sep 16

    Creative, Unemployed, and Still Unable to Hit Record

    Six months ago I stopped having a day job. For years I had been cursing the office hours that ate the time I could spend on my own work, and then the job ended — made redundant — and the time was suddenly mine. It felt like a gift. Since then I have been building things almost every day: projects, websites, demos. They exist. Almost none of them are out in the world. I have been making things my whole life and I have also been unemployed, so this episode starts where those two states collide. What I keep coming back to is friction. When I was employed, the frustration with my day job was what pushed me: the tension, the sense that I had to escape something. Without it, I sit in a bubble where my own little world is enough. And it isn’t. You don’t do this only for yourself. You want to publish. You want to be heard. So why can’t I record? Recording sits at the top of my to-do list most days, not as a chore but as the thing I actually want to do. And I still don’t switch on the microphone. When I record something for a friend it takes one take. When I record a podcast I get strict with myself — I hear my own voice and start editing it while I’m still speaking. That is the trap: the version of me that wants to be ready is the reason nothing goes out. I admire the podcasters and YouTubers who do this full time, though I never see the backstage. Maybe a day job is part of what keeps a creative life balanced. Maybe what looked like freedom on the other side of employment is just open space, and open space can feel like a prison. Or maybe freedom lives inside the constraints. I am still working that one out. Takeaways: Six months out of a job gave me the time I had been asking for, and it did not give me the publishing.Friction was doing more for my work than I gave it credit for — the day job was pushing me to make things.I planned to record most days and did every other task first. The self-defeating part was not laziness.Recording for a friend takes me one take; recording for an audience makes me perform and edit myself as I speak.I never edit my episodes. When I genuinely feel like recording, it works. The aim is to press record and just talk.I would like to live more like a kid and less like a professional: doing things I like instead of performing.Maybe freedom is not what waits on the other side of a day job. Maybe it is inside the constraints. Links: Listen and subscribe: pod.link/1793525551 YouTube: @cMonkX Writing: cmonkx.substack.com Instagram: @cmonkx Contact me: cmonkxxx@gmail.com

  2. Aug 1

    City Life Burnout: Why I Finally Bought a Car

    write to me: cmonkxxx@gmail.com Living in a bustling metropolis like Berlin can feel like a double-edged sword. Once a source of inspiration, the city's noise and crowding now weigh heavily on my mental health. In this episode, I share my journey of grappling with urban stress, the pressures of an ever-growing population, and the frustration of crowded public transport that led me to make the life-changing decision to buy a car. This move was not just about convenience, but a necessary step for my sanity, allowing me to escape the city’s chaos, even if just for a moment. I also dive into the complexities of modern work, social isolation, and why I've decided to reconnect through casual videos and podcasts, hoping to foster genuine connections amidst the urban overload. Audio recorded during a walk. Berlin has long been hailed as a hub of creativity and inspiration, but as I reflect on my life here, I can't help but feel a sense of frustration and anxiety. The noise and chaos that once fueled my passion now overwhelm me, leading to a feeling of burnout. I took a drive to a nearby nature reserve, hoping to escape the urban overload and clear my mind. During this time, I pondered the changes within myself and the growing city around me. Is it me who has changed, or has Berlin changed? The answer seems to be both. As more people flock to this city, the stressors of crowded public transport and rising property prices compound our daily lives, making it harder to connect with the vibrant culture that once inspired me. I discuss the need for a car in a city where public transit is increasingly unreliable, and how this decision has improved my mental health by allowing me to access quieter places and reconnect with nature. In a world where social isolation is becoming the norm, I also reflect on how content creation and digital connections are crucial for maintaining relationships and engaging with others, even if it's through a screen. My journey through these urban struggles leads me to question the very nature of city living and what it means for our well-being. Takeaways: Living in a bustling city like Berlin can lead to overwhelming anxiety and stress.I used to find inspiration in city life, but now I feel trapped and isolated.Buying a car became essential for my mental health amid the urban chaos.The constant noise and crowding of the city force us to seek solace in nature.As the city grows, so does the pressure on its residents, impacting their mental well-being.I started recording podcasts and videos to reconnect with others and combat social isolation. Companies mentioned in this episode: MazdaDeutsche Welle

  3. Jul 8

    Finding Peace Away from Screens: The Return to Podcasting

    This episode dives into the chaotic yet fascinating world of AI and podcasting through my personal lens. I’ve recently found myself caught up in the whirlwind of software development with AI, grappling with its inconsistencies and the impact it's having on my life. I share some of my frustrations—like how my ambitious projects have imploded after months of work, leaving me questioning everything from my coding skills to the reliability of AI itself. But amidst the chaos, I also touch on the joy I find in podcasting and how I’m determined to rekindle that passion. Join me as I unpack these experiences, reflect on the challenges of navigating technology today, and explore the delicate balance between the digital and the analog in our lives. The episode opens with the speaker’s humorous acknowledgment of his chaotic podcasting schedule, revealing his intention to record three episodes in one day. This light-hearted introduction sets the tone for a candid exploration of his podcasting experiences, where he juggles multiple projects and reflects on the joys and challenges that come with them. With a mixture of self-reflection and humor, he navigates through the ups and downs of podcasting, revealing his desire to reconnect with his audience and share more personal insights. The speaker’s relaxed demeanor makes the discussion feel like a conversation between friends, where he openly discusses the motivations behind his various podcasts, including a new venture focused on AI agents. As the conversation deepens, the speaker shares his frustrations with AI technology and the complexities of software development. He candidly recounts his experiences over the past few months, where excitement turned into disappointment as his project faced unexpected obstacles. This narrative is infused with humor as he reflects on the often unreliable nature of AI, leading to a broader discussion about trust in technology and the emotional toll of creative endeavors. His journey through the intricacies of coding and design illustrates the struggle between ambition and reality, resonating with anyone who has faced similar hurdles in their creative pursuits. Towards the end, the speaker shifts gears to discuss the beauty of disconnecting from technology and embracing simpler joys in life. He draws a vivid parallel between his experiences with his new car and the freedom it brings, contrasting it with the chaos of public transport in a bustling city. This metaphor for personal freedom and the importance of enjoying life’s little moments encapsulates the episode’s core message. The speaker encourages listeners to reflect on their own experiences with technology, creativity, and the pursuit of happiness, making this episode a rich tapestry of humor, introspection, and relatable musings about the modern world. CONTACT ME: cmonkxxx@gmail.com Takeaways: In this episode, I share my struggles with balancing podcasting and software development, emphasizing how challenging it can be to keep priorities straight amidst distractions.I talk about my journey into AI coding, highlighting my excitement and subsequent frustrations as my project faced unexpected difficulties and setbacks.There's a deep reflection on the current AI landscape, where I express my mixed feelings about its promise and reliability in our daily lives and job prospects.I discuss the importance of owning a car for personal freedom and the ease it brings to life, contrasting it with the frustrations of public transport in a crowded city.I reflect on the nostalgic feelings evoked by technology and how we often recreate old realities in new forms, like emulating nature with screensavers.The episode concludes with my commitment to podcasting regularly again, as it brings me joy and a sense of connection with my audience. Companies mentioned in this episode: Unreal EngineFitbit

  4. Jun 10

    Unleashing Productivity in 2026: Finding Creative Flow with AI's Help

    I've been on a bit of a journey lately, and I can't help but share how AI has changed my creative game. It’s like I’ve unlocked this intense flow state that I haven’t felt in years, and I’m producing more than ever before. But here’s the catch: while AI is helping me bypass those frustrating roadblocks, I’m starting to wonder what that means for my creativity. Those hurdles used to be the very things that pushed me to learn and evolve my skills. Now, I find myself relying on AI not just for solutions but also as a kind of collaborator, and it’s a fascinating, yet slightly unsettling, experience. Join me as I dive into the highs and lows of this new creative landscape, reflecting on the balance between productivity and authentic self-expression. Takeaways: I've been on a creative roll lately, fueled by an intense sense of flow and productivity.The presence of AI is transforming how we approach problem-solving, often eliminating roadblocks that used to teach us valuable skills.While AI makes it easier to create, there's a fear about losing the essence of creativity and the personal touch in our work.Despite the efficiency AI provides, we need to be cautious of blindly relying on it, as it can reinforce our biases rather than challenge them. contact me at: cmonkxxx@gmail.com podcast productivity, creative flow, AI and creativity, learning coding with AI, overcoming creative blocks, self-improvement through AI, creative projects with AI, digital content creation, AI in creative industries, benefits of AI for creators, enhancing creativity with technology, AI as a learning tool, balancing technology and creativity, personal projects productivity, digital entrepreneurship, adapting to AI in creative work, video podcasting trends, future of creative work, motivation for creative projects, AI's impact on skill development

  5. Apr 29

    Personal Journal Podcasts - What's the point? DJI Mic Mini 3 test

    I’m diving into something a bit out there today—recording this podcast outside with a nifty little DJI mic mini 3 that’s blowing my mind with its clarity and noise protection. It’s surreal for me to reflect on my history with field recordings, but here I am, embracing this tiny device that feels almost impractical yet is incredibly convenient for capturing my thoughts. I can’t help but wonder about the future of this podcast, which used to be my flagship project but has taken a backseat to my other growing endeavors, like the Unreal Engine Diaries. I find myself questioning whether there’s still a demand for this kind of casual, introspective content that has no grand agenda, and honestly, it’s a bit bizarre to think about. As I wander through Berlin, I hope you’ll join me in this rambling chat, pondering the role of personal journals in today's podcasting landscape and maybe even sparking a connection along the way. The podcast takes a deep dive into the world of field recording and the surprising capabilities of modern technology, particularly focusing on the remarkable DJI mic. As I share my experiences, I can't help but marvel at how this tiny device produces sound quality that rivals much larger, traditional recording units. It's almost absurd to think that something so compact can deliver such clarity and noise protection. The convenience of this microphone means I can confidently record my thoughts while wandering through Berlin, capturing not just the sounds around me but also the essence of my musings. This episode serves as a reflection on the evolution of my podcasting journey, where I began with grand ambitions for my flagship podcast, only to find myself pondering its relevance in today's content landscape. As I juggle with feelings of doubt about the future of this particular podcast, I begin to question whether there's still an audience for this style of personal, unedited audio diaries that I cherish so much. In exploring the nature of podcasting, I reflect on my shift from my original show to the more successful Unreal Engine Diaries. This juxtaposition leads me to contemplate the unique niche that my podcast represents—one that is perhaps too introspective in a world that craves solutions and guidance. I find it striking how my desire for a raw and unfiltered audio experience seems to stand apart from the mainstream demand for polished and purpose-driven content. The essence of this podcast, intended as a companion for listeners, now feels overshadowed by a perception that it lacks the commercial viability that fuels many popular shows. Yet, I remain curious about the personal value I find in these recordings, the joy of sharing my thoughts with an audience, no matter how small it may be. As I wrap up this episode, I’m torn between the nostalgic allure of traditional podcasting and the modern shift toward interactive content. The idea of creating a virtual radio station that blends my personal audio diaries with an immersive experience in gaming feels like a fitting evolution, merging the old with the new. I invite listeners to engage with me, to share their thoughts on this unconventional journey, and to ponder the future of podcasting together. With a blend of introspection, humor, and a touch of existential questioning, this episode captures the spirit of what it means to create in a rapidly changing digital landscape—one that I hope resonates with anyone who has ever felt a bit lost in their creative pursuits. contact: cmonkxxx@gmail.com Takeaways: I shared my excitement about using a small DJI microphone for field recording adventures, which has been a game changer for my podcasting.Reflecting on my podcast journey, it feels surreal to see how far field recording has come, especially with technology like this.Despite my flagship podcast taking a backseat, I find joy in my Unreal Engine Diaries podcast, which is growing without any promotion.It's fascinating to think about the unique nature of this podcast, designed as a companion rather than a solution, which might not resonate widely with audiences.I realize that the personal journal style of podcasting I enjoy could be deemed impractical in today's fast-paced content landscape, making me wonder about its future.While I question the relevance of my podcast, I find satisfaction in creating an intimate connection through audio, even considering new ways to engage listeners. Companies mentioned in this episode: DJIUnreal Engine

  6. Apr 8

    Vibe Coding: The Art of Frivolous Programming

    After enduring a grueling 11-hour bus ride from Poland to Germany, I found myself reflecting on the whirlwind of ideas that accompanied my journey. Despite the exhaustion, I was invigorated by the creative energy sparked by my coding projects with AI. This episode dives into the exhilarating process of "vibe coding," where I explore how AI has transformed my ability to bring ideas to life, from building simple apps to immersive 3D games. We also tackle the growing pressure to monetize our passions in a world that often undervalues creative pursuits, and how this mindset can stifle genuine exploration. Join me as I share my thoughts on navigating the intersection of technology and creativity, and the importance of staying engaged in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. contact me: cmonkxxx@gmail.com instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cmonkx Takeaways: Traveling from Poland to Germany turned into an exhausting 11-hour ordeal on a bus, highlighting the unpredictability of public transportation.The excitement of coding with AI can lead to unexpected productivity, even during long hours on a bus.I've discovered that the creative process is just as rewarding as finishing a project, and it's vital not to lose sight of that joy.Vibe coding is a fun and accessible way for people to engage with technology without getting bogged down by technical details. Links referenced in this episode: instagram Returning from a chaotic journey, I found myself reflecting on the benefits and drawbacks of travel. The 11-hour bus ride from Poland to Germany was supposed to be a simple, seven-hour trip. However, unexpected delays at the border turned my plans upside down. Despite the discomfort of being cooped up in a bus for hours, I discovered a surprising silver lining: the opportunity to dive deep into my passion for coding with AI. As I sat in a comfortable front seat, I was able to explore new ideas and projects, creating a 3D game and coding tools that I had long dreamed of but struggled to realize alone. This experience highlights the tension between the monotony of travel and the creative energy that can thrive in unexpected situations. The conversation then shifted towards the concept of “vibe coding,” a term I use to describe playful, spontaneous coding aided by AI. I delved into how this new approach has transformed my creative process, allowing me to work more efficiently and effectively than ever before. AI becomes not just a tool but a collaborator, helping me refine my ideas and overcome the mental blocks that previously hindered my progress. As we discussed the significance of pursuing creativity for its own sake, I reflected on how the pressure to monetize every hobby can stifle our intrinsic motivation to create and explore. The journey also sparked a discussion about the challenges contemporary creators face in a world that increasingly demands practical outputs from our passions. While I find joy in coding without the expectation of immediate profit, many around me struggle to justify their creative pursuits. This leads to a larger conversation about the evolving landscape of creativity and technology, and how we must adapt to thrive in a world where AI plays an ever-growing role. As I look towards the future, I’m excited to see how these developments will shape not only my work but also the broader creative community.

  7. Mar 17

    Laid Off by AI: What Happens to Your Identity When the Algorithm Replaces You

    Navigating the unpredictable waters of unemployment, I find myself in a unique position to reflect on my journey as a product designer and podcaster. After two weeks of radio silence, I finally sit down to share my thoughts, and boy, has it been a ride! I've recently been let go from my position at a podcast hosting company, a role that felt like a dream come true, blending my love for podcasting with my design skills. As I walk through the quiet streets, I can't help but dive into the emotional rollercoaster that comes with job loss. It’s not just about the loss of income; it’s about the identity crisis that follows. I talk about how AI is reshaping our industry, leading to layoffs and forcing many of us to rethink our professional identities. The world is evolving, and while technology can be a great assistant, it still lacks the human touch. As I explore my next steps, I share my vision of becoming a design consultant, leveraging my skills in a way that can provide a premium service that AI simply can't replicate. I invite listeners to join me on this journey and share their own experiences in this rapidly changing landscape. Together, we can navigate these challenges and find our place in the age of AI. Takeaways: It's totally okay to take breaks when life gets overwhelming, just like I did recently.Working from home has its perks, especially when commuting is a nightmare, as I experienced.The rise of AI in the work world is a real concern, impacting many jobs, including mine.Creating content is more accessible than ever, and anyone can express themselves online now.I believe AI isn't quite there yet and human creativity still holds the premium value.Connecting with our audience is crucial, and I'm eager to hear your stories and thoughts. Companies mentioned in this episode: MetaFacebook

About

cMonkX Radio is an unscripted solo podcast about what it actually feels like to live through the AI revolution as a creative person. Each episode is a honest, unedited monologue — sometimes a walk through Berlin, sometimes a morning coffee, sometimes a late-night thought that wouldn't leave me alone. No guests, no scripts, no agenda. Just one person thinking out loud about technology, creative work, artificial intelligence, and the kind of life questions that don't have clean answers. Topics include: AI and the future of creative work, life as an expat in Berlin, independent content creation, digital tools and their human cost, philosophy of meaning and happiness, parenting at a distance, and the slow art of making things when the world wants everything fast. If you're a maker, a thinker, or someone who uses technology every day but sometimes wonders what we're actually optimizing for — this show is for you. New episodes whenever something is worth saying. contact me at: cmonkxxx@gmail.com